Central Museum of Prisoners of War

The Central Museum of Prisoners of War, established in 1964 in Łambinowice, serves as an important institution documenting the fate of prisoners of war, particularly in the context of World War II. Originally a branch of the Museum of Opole Silesia, it gradually gained independent status, changing its name several times before adopting its current form. The museum fulfills scientific, educational, and conservation roles, and has organized numerous exhibitions and academic conferences, including one marking its 50th anniversary in 2015. It provides information about the German and Soviet prisoner-of-war systems and conducts research on various aspects of World War II and modern Polish history. The museum has two locations: in Opole, where the administration and exhibitions are housed, and in Łambinowice, in revitalized buildings of a former prisoner-of-war camp. The Opole site holds historical significance, with a past linked to arrests and the operations of the Gestapo. In Łambinowice, remnants of the camps and prisoner cemeteries can be found, making the area a National Memorial Site. The museum’s collections exceed 10,000 items, primarily related to World War II, including memorabilia from Polish prisoners. Its archives contain documents concerning prisoners, such as records from the German Red Cross and testimonies from former prisoners, contributing significantly to the study of captivity history. The uniqueness of the museum is highlighted by exhibits created during the war, including works of art and everyday objects, as well as preserved archival materials, microfilms, and a valuable photo collection. This is a place of remembrance not only for prisoners of war but also for the difficult times of World War II, forming an important part of Polish culture and history.